Okay, I am only going to get two days on the slopes this year. I am a good skier but have never snowboarded. I wake board and wake surf regularly and I usually pick up new sports easily. My question is, is it better to spend a half day taking a lesson or just picking up and learning by doing? I have never taken a lesson for any sport but I want to make the most of my two days and if that means a half day lesson will make the rest of the time better, then that is what I will do.

Also, I will probably buy a board and bindings since I expect to spend most time on the slopes in the future on a snowboard. Any feedback on boards and bindings will be appreciated. FYI, I am 6'4" and 220 lbs.

Take a beginner lesson and get a feel on your own, nothing beats actual time spend on the slope. Maybe a ride improvement lessons 1 to 2 seasons afterward to correct some bad habits you might have picked up.

If you only have two days, then time is of the essence. While a group lesson is a damned sight better than trying to learn yourself (believe me on this, I went the latter route), the problem is that the lesson moves at the pace of the slowest student. If you get a private lesson, then it will move at whatever pace you're capable of. You're almost certain to come out of the two hours a lot farther ahead, and more ready to enjoy the remaining almost 2 days. Yeah, they're more expensive, but in your situation I'd think it's worth it.

I wish I would have taken lessons. My brother gave me a few pointers, he didn't even start me out on the bunny hill, instead took me to a green where it was steep off the lift. Didn't make it far until I caught an edge and hit my head(without a helmet ). That left me with a headache the rest of the day and made it less fun. I learned by trial and bruises, but I wouldn't recommend that to anyone. Get a lesson, buy or rent a helmet, and it will be more enjoyable. And have fun!